English Reference
adjective · verb · noun

sour

adj. · v. · n.
US /ˈsaʊɝ/ UK /sˈaʊə/ sour UK spelling soured, sours

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Cooking

    adj.having a sharp, acidic taste like a lemon or vinegar.

    adj.having an acid, tart, or tangy taste characteristic of citrus fruits or vinegar.

    Simple

    The green apples were very sour, so I added some sugar to the pie.

    In context

    The chef balanced the rich, fatty duck breast with a sour cherry reduction to cut through the oiliness of the meat.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    adj.food that has gone bad and smells or tastes sharp and unpleasant.

    adj.having turned rancid or fermented due to spoilage, typically resulting in an acidic odour or flavour.

    Simple

    I had to throw out the milk because it had gone sour in the heat.

    In context

    The distinct smell of sour cream indicated that the dairy products had been left out of the refrigerator for far too long.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.unfriendly, unhappy, or annoyed.

    adj.morose, peevish, or ill-tempered in disposition.

    Simple

    He had a sour look on his face after he lost the game.

    In context

    The negotiations ended on a sour note, with both parties refusing to make further concessions or schedule a follow-up meeting.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to stop being friendly or successful.

    v.to become unpleasant, disenchanted, or hostile; to spoil a relationship or situation.

    Simple

    Their friendship began to sour after they started working together.

    In context

    The relationship between the two countries soured rapidly following the dispute over maritime borders and fishing rights.

    spoilworsenembitter
  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate Cooking

    n.a type of alcoholic drink made with lemon or lime juice.

    n.a category of mixed drink consisting of a base spirit, lemon or lime juice, and a sweetener.

    Simple

    He ordered a whiskey sour at the bar while waiting for his friends.

    In context

    A classic pisco sour requires egg whites to create the signature frothy texture that balances the sharp citrus profile.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated